Best bang for buck computer audio system?

[scourge]

As the subject states, should I get an SB Live with a Cambridge Soundworks DTT2500 Digital system or a Aureal SQ2500 with a FPS 1000 or etc, etc. What's the best/cheapest sound card/speaker system combination?

I like to use my computer to watch DVDs and to play Starcraft/Diablo/ST:Armada and some FPS games.

[Toadman]

Cambridge is a decent setup(I got one). PC audio is closing in fast on home entertainment, and you almost need a sound demo room like at audio stores to make a decision. Speaker/woofer placement, EQ tweaking, etc all part of the equation.

[shadow]

I don't have much for a sound card, a Creative Ensoniq pci but it works great for me. I have the output going to a well powered old stereo reciever with 2 nice speakers hooked to it. Great sound from this sytem, nothin like a good ol AC powered amp with real rms watts to bring out the best in audio.
PW

[tonym]

I'm using a Digital Research 64 bit sound card (with a Yamaha chip set) that I bought at Staples for $29.95 and an Altec-Lansing APS-44 speaker system/subwoofer that I bought at Best Buy for $49.99.

Cheap, but sounds great. And I can't tell the difference between this set up and a Sound Blaster/better speaker combination, but of course the countless hours of Zepplin, Nugent and AC/DC back in the 70's and 80's might have some bearing on that!!!

What you say???

Tony

[Ultima]

Hey guys,

I just have my simple mx300 with add-on card.
I have 2x2 sateliteboxes and a woofer from labtec(300 sickening watts) and 2 regular no brand 120W boxes.

This works great for me, the sound that comes from the woofer is incredible.

It is situated under my desk, and against the wall.
When I turn it to a fourth of the volume, the whole desk and wall start shaking as hell.

My parents ain't that happy that I got the thing.Hahahahah

Pim

[LJJones]

Get some VideoLogic DigiTheatre speakers. Theyre a 5.1 channel Dolby Digital Surround Sound thingy with dolby SP/DIF and Optical inputs, they would be great connected to the SB LIve Platinum with the Live Drive. Check out the videologic speakers at www.videologic.co.uk (http://www.videologic.co.uk)

[akaBruno]

I've done the same as Shadow and Warthog, w/ an old Marantz reciever and a pair of 3ways. It sounds better than any of the little sh*t boxes I've ever heard.

[seti]

I've got an sblive and dtt2500's. I really like the setup though the bass is more muddy than I like. Though the amp has a powered sub output for upgradeing. The digital connection is nice...I really hate hiss, so it's a small blessing. It also comes with surround stands, so that's great. It's not as loud as everything out there...but for sitting at your comp it's more than powerfull enough for anyone with decent hearing, it hurts my ears over half way on the master volume knob. It's also pretty cheap.


[This message has been edited by seti (edited 04-24-2000).]

[Biff]

I got SBLive mp3+ and Cambridge soundworks, sounds AWESOME to me

[felix726]

got a vortex 2 SQ2500 and the Klipsche Pro Media's, ive heard alot of home stereo systems that cost 3 times as much and dont sound as good

[akaBruno]

Just keep in mind that I can **** louder than a lot of sh*t boxes and home stereos that I've heard. You can pick up used quality equipment that will surpass anything suggested, for less $$$. If you really want to compare just look at the stats in RMS watts per channel. One glance comparing tiny plastic boxes to Big wooden enclosures is also a dead givaway.
Sometimes you just have to be uncool to be really Cool.
Shmoke 'em if ya got 'em , boys...

[mattheadfat]

i have to agree with shadow. actually hooking your computer up to a stereo system sounds SO much better than any computer speakers. you just have to be careful with unmagnetically shielded speakers.

[RCN_Moose]

MX300 and Klipsche Pro Medias. These speakers are the BEST. PERIOD. 400watts, THX Certified all for only $249.

Moose http://www.sysopt.com/forum/smile.gif

[Warthog]

This isn't exactly inexpensive but here is my setup:
- Pioneer amplifier
- Two Pioneer 150w, 15" front speakers (don't need a sub with that much power)
- Two 60w, 6 1/2" rear speakers

Total cost = $350 (by stuff at Sam's Club)

Ultima, I know what you mean when you say your desk and wall shake! I had to remove a picture hanging on the wall because it would rattle. I can also side with you on the parents being unhappy part. http://www.sysopt.com/forum/smile.gif

It all depends what you need it for. My system is my complete home theater and stereo.

[Ultima]

Say Warthog,

My system is an all in one machine.
I use it to play games(duhhh), I've got a dvd-player on it and a tv hooked to my vid card, for watching on tv.

I also use it as a stereo, ofcourse that would be one of the points with which I boom my box.
And just about anything else that can possibly be done on a pc, I do on my pc.

Pim.

BTW, on groundfloor, the cabinet with the crystal glasses in it, has been moved to another place in the house, just as a precaution, hahaha.

[Warthog]

LOL Ultima!! http://www.sysopt.com/forum/smile.gif

Glad to find someone I can relate to on this board.

http://www.sysopt.com/forum/wink.gif

Warthog